derogate v : belittle; "Don't belittle his
influence" [syn:
minimize,
belittle,
denigrate]
English
Etymology
From the derogare, from de- + rogare.
Verb
- To take away or detract from.
- His recent outburst will surely derogate from his reputation
some.
- To act in a manner below oneself; to go astray.
- To belittle;
disparage.
- The children derogated the new girl to the point of
tears.
Adjective
- debased
-
- 1605, Dry up in her the organs of increase, / And from her
derogate body never spring / A babe to honour her. — William
Shakespeare, King Lear I.iv
Italian
Verb
derogate